Patch Candidate Profile: Melissa Mongillo, Derby Board Of Education

DERBY, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Derby and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Shelton-Derby Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Melissa Mongillo, 45, is a Derby resident running for the Board of Education.

Education

BS University of Connecticut

What is your occupation?

Vice President, Recruiting and Business Development

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Daugher, Maya, age 12

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I am completing my 1st term as Board of Education member

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I am running for re-election to the Board of Education because my unwavering commitment to education and our community drives me to continue serving in this role. My life has been guided by fundamental values: leadership, empathy, and resilience, which not only define my character but also underscore my work and volunteer experiences.

Coming from a family of public servants, I was instilled with a deep sense of altruism and a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. My dedication to the youth in our community has been a powerful motivator for my involvement in various organizations, including the Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys and Girls Club. Currently, I proudly serve as the President of the Derby Pop Warner Board, where I played a pivotal role in revitalizing the football program, giving our young athletes a platform to flourish.

In my current capacity, I am honored to hold the position of Chair for the Negotiations & Personnel Committee and serve as a member of the Athletic Committee on the Derby Board of Education. During my previous term, I actively participated in hiring committees for critical positions, including Head Football Coach, Athletic Director, Principal of Irving School, Dean of Students, District Business Manager, and Facilities Director. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the educational system and underscored its vital role in our community.

My motivation for seeking re-election is firmly rooted in my unwavering commitment to enhancing the Derby community, with a specific focus on supporting our youth and their families. I firmly believe that education forms the cornerstone of a thriving community, and I am wholeheartedly dedicated to ensuring our schools provide the best possible environment for learning and personal growth.

In conclusion, my connection to this community, combined with my experience as a business leader, has equipped me with the skills needed to drive positive change and progress. I am genuinely dedicated to making decisions that prioritize the well-being of our children, families, and those who support them. My commitment to representing this sometimes voiceless group is unwavering. I do not engage in political games or shy away from tough conversations. I am running for office because I aspire to make decisions for the greater good, devoid of ego or personal gain. My primary focus is on the children, their families, and those who tirelessly support them in our schools every day.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Mental Health. I will continue to support incorporating mental health education into the curriculum, as well as, inschool opportunities for treatment. Addressing mental illness is about promoting mental well-being, resilience, and overall health. It equips students with valuable life skills that can benefit them throughout their lives, contributing to a healthier, more empathetic, and better-educated society. You can't teach a child who isn't ready to learn because their emotional backpack is too heavy.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I believe there are several major differences that set me apart from some of the other candidates seeking a position on the Board of Education.

Community Engagement: I am deeply entrenched in our community and have been actively involved with the Derby Pop Warner Board and several BOE committees. I know our families, understand their concerns, and have firsthand experience working to enhance the well-being of our children. This gives me a unique perspective on the needs and aspirations of our community members.

Selflessness and Objectivity: One key distinction is that I have no personal gains to make by being on this board. My motivation is solely to serve our community and its children. I am completely objective in my decision-making, ensuring that every choice I make is in the best interest of our students and their families.

Transparency and Communication: I am committed to being an open and honest communicator. Transparency is essential in building trust and maintaining a strong connection between the Board and our community. I believe in keeping the lines of communication open, listening to concerns, and providing clear explanations of decisions made.

Advocacy for What's Right: I am a strong advocate for what's right, and I will tirelessly fight for the best interests of our students and families. I am not afraid to ask tough questions, challenge the status quo when necessary, and ensure that our educational system continuously improves to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Representation of Our Community: If elected, I will be a dedicated representative of our community on the Board of Education. I will work tirelessly to ensure that the voices, concerns, and aspirations of our community members are well represented and considered in every decision made.

In summary, my deep community involvement, selflessness, commitment to transparency, advocacy for what's right, and dedication to representing our community's interests set me apart from the other candidates. I am passionate about serving our community and ensuring that our schools provide the best possible education and support for our students. I believe that together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of our children and the future of our community.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

n/a

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Coming from a family of public servants, I was instilled with a deep sense of altruism and a profound commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. My dedication to the youth in our community has been a powerful motivator for my involvement in various organizations, including the Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys and Girls Club. Currently, I proudly serve as the President of the Derby Pop Warner Board, where I played a pivotal role in revitalizing the football program, giving our young athletes a platform to flourish.

In my current capacity, I am honored to hold the position of Chair for the Negotiations & Personnel Committee and serve as a member of the Athletic Committee on the Derby Board of Education. During my previous term, I actively participated in hiring committees for critical positions, including Head Football Coach, Athletic Director, Principal of Irving School, Dean of Students, District Business Manager, and Facilities Director. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the educational system and underscored its vital role in our community.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To be myself. Being authentic and staying true to my own personal values and beliefs has guided me to where I am at this point in life.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My connection to this community, combined with my experience as a business leader, has equipped me with the skills needed to drive positive change and progress. I am genuinely dedicated to making decisions that prioritize the well-being of our children, families, and those who support them. My commitment to representing this sometimes voiceless group is unwavering. I do not engage in political games or shy away from tough conversations. I am running for office because I aspire to make decisions for the greater good, devoid of ego or personal gain. My primary focus is on the children, their families, and those who tirelessly support them in our schools every day.